Can Collagen Supplements Cause Acne? – What You Need To Know

The big C word, Collagen, hailed as the most abundant protein in the human body, plays a key role in maintaining the health of your skin. As we age, the natural production of collagen dwindles, giving rise to concerns like fine lines, wrinkles, and joint pain. In an attempt to counteract these effects, many turn to dietary supplements, specifically collagen ones, to promote radiant skin and overall well-being.

These supplements have gained immense popularity in recent years, touted for their potential to promote skin elasticity, joint health, and overall well-being. However, an unexpected concern has emerged within the skincare community – the possible connection between collagen supplements and acne.

In this article, we’ll explore the scientific basis behind this link, the causes and effects, and provide insights into what individuals can do to maintain healthy skin while benefiting from collagen supplementation.

What Role Does Collagen Play in Our Bodies?

Collagen comprises 80% of skin but also provides crucial connective tissue scaffolding around organs, muscles, bones and hair made up of amino acids. Our fibroblast cells continually produce multiple types of this structural protein keeping tissues supple and strong. But aging, sun damage and inflammation hinder collagen construction, allowing skin to wrinkle and sag.

How Can Collagen Supplements Help Improve Skin Health?

Collagen is a structural protein found in various connective tissues, including the skin. It provides strength and elasticity, contributing to a youthful and resilient complexion. As we age, collagen production naturally decreases, leading many to turn to collagen supplements as a potential solution to combat signs of aging.

Collagen, present in various forms, is vital for skin hydration, hair follicle health, and wound healing. The skin’s surface is adorned with collagen fibers, contributing to its texture and appearance. Collagen proteins are like the building blocks that keep our skin firm, supple, and resilient.

While collagen supplements boast health benefits, can consuming it trigger acne breakouts? There is some evidence to suggest that collagen supplements may influence the production of collagen fibers in the skin, but the impact on acne-prone skin is nuanced and subjective.

Collagen, especially when derived from animal products like bone broth or collagen powder, contains amino acids that may affect the skin’s sebaceous glands, potentially leading to increased oil production. Excess oil, or sebum, is a well-known contributor to different types of acne, including cystic acne.

Common Types of Collagen Supplements To Know About

Collagen types I and III – These are the most abundant types, making up 80-90% of our collagen. Supplements with types I and III support tendons, bones, skin, muscles, and blood vessels. Benefits include improving skin elasticity, wound healing, joint health, and muscle mass retention. They are unlikely to cause acne breakouts.
Collagen type II – This directly helps rebuild cartilage and is beneficial for joint and bone health. As we age, cartilage breakdown leads to stiff, achy joints and collagen II may relieve joint discomfort. It does not cause acne.
Hydrolyzed collagen – The process of hydrolysis breaks down collagen peptides into smaller pieces for better absorption in the body. All types of collagen are available as hydrolyzed for maximum utilization.
Marine collagen – Sourced from fish skin and scales. Helps form the connective tissues of skin to boost hydration and elasticity. Its peptides are different than bovine or porcine sources but skin improvement effects are similar. While it is unlikely to spur acne, it is still derived from fish sources, which can sometimes contain impurities or allergens that may trigger skin reactions.

Overall the type of collagen is less important than making sure your supplement contains bioavailable hydrolyzed collagen peptides. Types I and III offer whole body health support while marine or type II provide targeted joint relief or skin rejuvenation depending on your main goals. None have been shown to directly cause acne breakouts.

What Types of Collagen Supplements Might Cause Acne?

Collagen sourced from eggs or dairy – Some people may have sensitivities to eggs or milk that manifest as acne after consuming them. Collagen from these sources contains proteins that could spur breakouts.
Lower quality collagen supplements – Cheaper or lower purity collagen is more likely to contain impurities or additives like sugars, dairy, gluten etc. These added ingredients may cause skin irritation or acne in sensitive people.
High IGF-1 levels – Some research shows collagen supplements derived from bovine sources may increase IGF-1 growth hormone levels. Elevated IGF-1 may overstimulate oil glands and lead to clogged pores. However, more research is needed to confirm effects on acne.
Omega fatty acid imbalance – Fish or marine collagen skews omega intake heavily toward omega-3s. An imbalance between omega-3s and omega-6s may exacerbate inflammatory acne. More supporting research is required.
Collagen with Added Ingredients – Some collagen supplements include additional ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, or flavorings. These additives could contain substances that some individuals may be sensitive to, leading to skin issues, including acne.
Poor Quality – Low-quality collagen supplements may undergo processing that introduces impurities or contaminants. These impurities could potentially irritate the skin or disrupt the balance of the skin’s microbiome, contributing to acne.
High Heavy Metal Content – Excessive heavy metal intake has been linked to skin issues, and in some cases, may contribute to acne development.
Additives or Preservatives – Collagen supplements combined with additives like sugars or artificial sweeteners may affect blood sugar levels, potentially influencing hormonal fluctuations. Hormonal imbalances can contribute to increased oil production, clogged pores, and acne.
Overconsumption – While moderate collagen supplementation is generally considered safe, excessive intake may lead to imbalances. Overconsumption of collagen could potentially overload the body with certain amino acids, which might influence processes linked to skin health, potentially contributing to acne.
Allergic Reactions – Individuals with allergies to specific sources of collagen (e.g., fish or bovine) may experience allergic reactions, including skin issues like acne. Allergies trigger immune responses that can manifest as inflammation, affecting the skin’s condition.

What To Look Out For In Collagen Supplements to Avoid Acne

Well, the obvious thing to do would be to stop consuming collagen, but that would interfere with our beauty goals, won’t it? Instead, here are some much more practical suggestions to help you with looking fresh and young without the angry red spots!

Choose High-Quality Supplements: Opt for collagen supplements from good sources, ensuring they are free from unnecessary additives or impurities. Look for products sourced from marine collagen peptides or other marine sources. These options often undergo rigorous testing to ensure they are free from heavy metals and chemical additives that might trigger skin problems.
Monitor Hormonal Changes: Be mindful of hormonal fluctuations. If you notice an increase in acne after starting collagen supplements, consider consulting a healthcare professional to assess and address hormonal imbalances.
Diversify Protein Sources: Instead of relying solely on collagen supplements, take care of your digestive system by maintaining a balanced diet that includes a variety of protein sources and anti-inflammatory foods. This helps ensure a well-rounded amino acid profile without overloading on specific types.
Maintain a Consistent Skincare Routine: Even if you’re taking collagen supplements, continue with a consistent skincare routine. Include non-comedogenic moisturizers and avoid excessive use of heavy creams that may contribute to clogged pores.
Topical Treatments: For individuals with acne-prone skin concerned about collagen products triggering breakouts, topical treatments containing ingredients like tea tree oil may help manage acne lesions and scarring. It’s crucial to maintain a consistent skincare routine that addresses acne scars, dead skin cells, and ensures proper skin hydration without exacerbating oily skin.
Consult a Dermatologist: If acne persists or worsens, consult a dermatologist for personalized advice. They can evaluate your skin condition, identify potential triggers, and recommend suitable skincare adjustments.

While high-quality collagen supplements offer potential benefits for overall health and skin appearance, it’s essential to be aware of the potential link between collagen supplements and acne so that your efforts to have good skin is not derailed. The key lies in understanding individual responses and making informed choices.

Effects of Collagen Supplements on Acne Production

Allergic reactions and adverse effects are subjective, as it all depends on individual factors like genetics, pre-existing health conditions, and overall diet. It could also boil down to the dosage and duration of collagen supplementation.

High doses or prolonged use may have different impacts compared to moderate or short-term use. Not to forget quality and purity. The source and purity of collagen supplements matter. Poor-quality supplements may contain impurities or additives that can adversely affect the skin.

Excess Sebum Production: Collagen supplements may influence hormonal levels, particularly androgens, which play a role in sebum production. Hormonal imbalances induced by collagen supplements could stimulate the sebaceous glands to produce more sebum, leading to oily skin. Excessive sebum production can result in clogged pores when combined with dead skin cells. This environment becomes favorable for the growth of acne-causing bacteria (Propionibacterium acnes).
Inflammation: Collagen supplements, particularly those derived from animal sources, may alter the balance of amino acids, especially an increase in glycine. Imbalances in amino acids, including excess glycine, may promote inflammatory processes in the body.
Alterations in Gut Health: Collagen supplements may impact gut health by influencing the composition and diversity of the gut microbiome. Disruptions in the delicate balance of gut flora may occur, potentially affecting systemic inflammation and immune responses. They may also influence hormonal balance. Hormones play a pivotal role in skin health, and fluctuations can contribute to the development of acne, particularly in individuals predisposed to hormonal acne.
Glycine Content: Collagen supplements often contain the amino acid glycine. While glycine is essential for collagen synthesis, excessive amounts may disrupt the balance of amino acids in the body, potentially triggering skin issues.

By prioritizing high-quality supplements, monitoring hormonal changes, and maintaining a holistic approach to skincare and nutrition, individuals can strike a balance that promotes both skin health and overall well-being.

The Millennial Glow